Question: What is the difference between phosphorus loss from fall-applied fertilizer versus spring-applied?

Answer: If your question is about high pH soils that tend to tie up phosphorus, then you’re better off to wait until spring. In the spring, you’re applying phosphorus closer to plant up-take and limiting the risk of tie up in the soil. When we talk about phosphorus loss from the soil through the tile it usually means the soil already has above adequate levels of phosphorus—essentially excessive amounts—and it wouldn’t be a good idea to be applying more. An example of this problem is the Chesapeake Bay area which is fighting the problem in groundwater.

The Value of Phosphorus in Starter
Our agronomist tells how much phosphorus is needed in the blend for starter fertilizer. Starter fertilizer is one tool farmers use to help get their corn crop off to a strong start.